C'est fini---presque

The transformation began as I opened the cardboard box containing the Alfine rear hub, by our friends at Shimano. This 8-speed, 36h, internally geared hub is the perfect choice for this bike project. After some careful gear-inch calculations (gracias, Sheldon, RIP), I decided to install a 22t cog on the hub to most closely approximates our Trek 7100's gear combination of 28-38-48, 14-34. Using the original Stronglight 50-40t crank, the Peugeot overall gear range is actually broader than the previous bike's arrangement (although the spacing is different).

I carefully laced the hub up to a Salsa Delgado Cross rim with Wheelsmith 2.0 spokes, and voila! Gorgeous. We opted for the index shifter. Since we're keeping the 50-40t crank, I need some sort of chain tensioner. While Alfine has an offering, I opted for the stock Simplex derailleur with the limit screws adjusted for non-movement. Chainline is almost perfectly split between the chainrings. I'll work on replacing the incredibly worn pulleys, however.

For the front hub, I opted for the SRAM i-Light dynamo hub (36 hole as well, same rim and spokes). After some careful lacing and tensioning, voila encore! By the end of the week, the wheels will be complete with Schwalbe Marathon Plus tires, 700x32c, but for now, they are sporting my Panaracer Pasela 28's. They'll do.

Next was the saddle. That was easy! Brooks B-67 S in brown. Tons of charm and lots of future miles.

For now, the stem and handlebar will remain unchanged, but I have plans to widen and raise just a smidge to clear the iBert (pics at bottom). The shellacked cork grips work quite well.

Now on to my favorite part of the refurbish--the lighting. Of course, Peter White has the most extensive knowledge database and inventory on the subject, so I began studying. For the front light, I chose to mimic my Brompton's headlight, and go with the Busch & Muller Lumotec IQ Cyo R Senso Plus, with the metallic finish to somewhat match the original setup. LOVE THIS LIGHT!

Wiring the project was probably my favorite part, reminding me of my high school days of wiring various DC lights to my 1984 Subaru hatchback and installing miscellaneous car audio equipment. The fenders have a convenient lip or channel on the underside, allowing for clean routing of the wires. Since the bike originally had lights mounted on the fenders, I used the existing grommets for passing the wires through the fenders and into said channels.

Notice the Brooks Leather grip washers I used to properly space the front fender underneath the Tektro 556's (left over from shortening them for the Brompton).

I did have to run the supply cable down the back of the fork leg, using unsightly zip ties. Oh well.

On the underbelly, there are some cute little flaps that bend into place to hold the wiring as it transitions from front to rear wheel.

The original wiring provided with the headlight was about 6 inches too short, so a quick splice was necessary to reach the taillight. Speaking of the rear light, I decided to stay with a fender mounted light, and the B&M 4D Lite Plus was just the ticket. Both lights incorporate a standlight, using a condenser that stores energy to keep the system lit while the front wheel is not spinning.

And, finally, here are some shots with the iBert "frog" seat and Basil panniers. Notice theTrail-Gator attachment on the seatpost. Of course ours is blue.

A little night shot with my poor little camera.

A parting shot, one of my new faves.